A 1903 Panhard et Levassor Model KB Phaeton – just the 18th car to be registered for use in Madrid – is to go under the hammer at Bonhams' London to Brighton sale on 31 October.
The early four-cylinder car was purchased by eccentric businessman Ricardo Soriano, an early promotor of tourism to the Costa del Sol and, in particular, Marbella.
The car remained in Soriano's possession for 71 years and was kept in very original condition, only in 1975 undergoing light restoration of the upholstery and paintwork. It then changed hands twice, the last time heralding a move to The Netherlands, where its current owner lives.
The Panhard is no stranger to the London to Brighton Run, having completed the event as recently as last year – which no doubt added to its value, currently estimated at £600-700,000.
Bonhams group motoring director James Knight told C&SC: "At 111 years old, the Panhard is in astoundingly good condition for such a well-travelled roadster. It is among some 20 veteran cars, making 2014 our biggest London to Brighton sale to date."
